The Notebook director reveals mother Gena Rowlands is battling Alzheimer's

In a recent interview with Entertainment Weekly, filmmaker Nick Cassavetes disclosed that his mother, acclaimed actor Gena Rowlands, has been battling Alzheimer's disease for the past five years. Rowlands, known for her roles in films like "A Woman Under the Influence" and "Gloria," received an honorary Oscar in 2015 and has won four Emmy awards. Cassavetes, who directed his mother in the 2004 movie "The Notebook," where she portrayed a character with dementia, expressed the surreal experience of now witnessing her real-life struggle with the disease. Rowlands' portrayal of an older Allie in "The Notebook," alongside actors like Rachel McAdams, James Garner, and Ryan Gosling, was particularly challenging as she channeled her own mother's battle with Alzheimer's. Cassavetes shared insights into the emotional journey of depicting Alzheimer's authentically on screen and now facing the harsh reality of his mother's condition. The family representative confirmed Cassavetes' statements, emphasizing the personal connection to the disease that spans across generations in the Rowlands family. Despite her remarkable career in film and television, including her last credited role in the 2014 comedy "Six Dance Lessons in Six Weeks," Rowlands' current struggle with Alzheimer's has brought a new perspective to her past performances. Cassavetes highlighted the profound impact of witnessing his mother's deterioration due to the disease, reflecting on the irony of having directed her in a role that now mirrors her own reality. As the news of Rowlands' Alzheimer's diagnosis spreads, fans and colleagues have expressed support and admiration for her contributions to the entertainment industry and her resilience in the face of this challenging illness. Variety has reached out to Rowlands' representatives for further comments on her condition and the family's journey with Alzheimer's. The revelation of Rowlands' health battle sheds light on the personal toll of the disease on individuals and their loved ones, underscoring the importance of raising awareness and support for those affected by Alzheimer's. As the entertainment world rallies around Gena Rowlands and her family during this difficult time, her legacy as a talented actor and her courage in confronting Alzheimer's will continue to inspire and resonate with audiences worldwide.